Celtic clear to sign Guidetti

FIFA have granted Celtic special dispensation to sign striker John Guidetti on loan from Manchester City.

The Scottish champions failed to complete the necessary paperwork before Monday's transfer deadline, but an appeal to FIFA was submitted on their behalf by the country's football authorities.

That appeal has succeeded, and the 22-year-old Swede is free to move north on a season-long loan as planned.

A FIFA spokesperson said: "After checking the documentation received and the information contained in the international transfer matching system managed by FIFA TMS, the Scottish Football Association was informed today that the envisaged loan deal may proceed."

Guidetti found first-team opportunities limited at the Etihad after moving from Sweden as a 16-year-old and has spent several spells out on loan with Burnley, Stoke and most notably Feyenoord where he scored 20 goals in 23 games.

The Swede is excited by the prospect of life in Glasgow and said: "I feel in great shape as it's been great to get a long pre-season with City. But I miss getting to play games, it's what I live for."

Meanwhile, the club have revealed that their Europa League participation has resulted in a number of league fixtures being moved to accommodate Thursday night European football.

The home game against Motherwell for Ronnie Deila's scheduled for Saturday, September 20, will now go ahead on Sunday, September 21 with a 3pm kick-off.

Hamilton Academical's visit to Celtic Park, due to take place on October 4, will now take place on Sunday, October 5 with a 3pm kick-off.

The Kilmarnock Parkhead clash scheduled for Saturday, October 25 will now kick-off at 3pm on Sunday, October 26.The away tie against Aberdeen set for Saturday, November 8, will take place at Pittodrie on Sunday, November 9 with a 12.30pm kick-off time.

Finally, Celtic's home tie with St Mirren scheduled for Saturday, December 13, will now go ahead on Sunday, December 14 at 3pm.

Celtic have also been informed that their trip to Dingwall on Saturday, October 18 to face Ross County will kick off at 12:45pm.